10 Best Neighborhoods To Move In Vancouver, BC

Vancouver often tops the list when featuring the best places to live around the world- and yes, it’s for all the good reasons.

This beautiful and vibrant city offers a booming economy and some of the best, hippiest restaurants, bars, and shopping places. 

Of course, we are not forgetting the gorgeous scenery and beautiful lush green gardens.

Health and well-being are a priority for people living in Vancouver, and you can explore that in the city’s beautiful parks, trails, and other outdoor activities. 

So, if you are planning to move to Vancouver for good, you’ll be lucky enough to find a wide variety of neighborhood options, each with its own distinct quality, housing styles, amenities, and scenic views. 

What is Vancouver Known For?

1. Beautiful Landscapes and Outdoor Activities

Vancouver is easily one of the most gorgeous cities on the planet.

Located on the peninsula, the city is surrounded by mountains, sparkling waters, and trails that look straight out of a postcard.

It’s the perfect mix of city vibes and outdoor fun.

Here are some top spots you’ve gotta check out while you’re in the city.

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is Vancouver’s urban oasis and a perfect highlight of what British Columbia is famous for.

With 1000 acres of towering trees, scenic trails, waterfront views, and lush green gardens, this park is best suited for a leisurely bike ride, exploring local wildlife, and a peaceful walk along the seawall.

Grouse Mountain

Go for a short drive from downtown and head to Grouse Mountain in North Vancouver, which has amazing outdoor activities going on all through the year.

In winter, it is famous for skiing and ice skating. (If you plan to visit this place, Get your winter boots ready.)

During summers, you can go hiking on the famous Ground Grind Trail or just explore all the scenic views by taking the Skyride Gandola (and saving your knees).

The mountain’s wildlife refuge is home to grizzly bears and other native species.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Queen Elizabeth Park is a 30-acre oasis featuring stunning views, a gorgeous rose garden, and even a golf course—perfect for a laid-back weekend with the family!

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Who hasn’t heard about the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park? This 70-metre-high bridge offers an exciting 137-metre walk surrounded by the beautiful lush green temperate rainforest.

Love adventures? Then this is the place for you. It offers breathtaking views and exciting treetop adventures.

2. Largest Chinatown in Canada

Vancouver has a large Chinese population and is famous for having the largest Chinatown in Canada.

Chinatown has one of many excellent dim sum restaurants that serve the best Chinese food.

You can head to a Chinese bakery for some of the best desserts and enjoy the beautiful trails and paths of a classical Chinese garden or stop by the Chinese cultural center to experience the culture and art history. 

3. Film Productions

Vancouver is one of the most famous film locations in the world. In recent years, it is known as the ”Hollywood North”. With several movies shot and produced in the city each year, Vancouver is a hub for creative arts.

Movies like Deadpool, Stark Trek, Godzilla, X-Men, Watchmen, and Mission Impossible have all been made in the city.

4. Hub for Events and Festivals

When it comes to events and festivals in Vancouver, the city is famous for putting on the best show.

If you are planning to move to Vancouver, then be ready, as there is something for everyone from film enthusiasts to music lovers.

Vancouver International Film Festival

The Vancouver International Film Festival is a dream come true for cinema lovers.

It gives budding filmmakers a chance to shine and prove their cinematic excellence to the world.

Not only that, but this festival offers a stage for showcasing local and international films.

So whether you’re into classic old movies or blockbuster hits, VIFF is exactly the place you should be. 

Vancouver Folk Music Festival

Do you love music? Great! The Vancouver Folk Music Festival is where you can find great music performances.

Held every summer at Jericho Beach Park, this festival brings together artists from all around the globe and supports local talent immensely. 

Best Places to Live in Vancouver, BC

Moving places is not an easy task, but here, we will make the task simpler for you. Below are the top ten safest neighborhoods in Vancouver you should consider when you’re planning to move to this city. 

From family-friendly communities to vibrant urban areas to glitzy nightlife, this city offers something for everyone. 

1. West End

The West End, located in the Downtown area, is the most affordable and diverse neighborhood of all the Downtown locations.

It is bordered by Downtown, Stanley Park, and the ocean.

The people living in West End are a mix of both Canadian immigrants and international residents- both young and old.

Not only this, but this neighborhood is proudly adorned with rainbow flags, including its lamp posts and homes, and the LGBTQ+ community has found a welcoming home in the district.

Many people choose to live in the West End and commute to Downtown, as the public transportation and close proximity make travel easier.

This area has various housing options, including high-rise condos, townhouses, duplexes, and larger heritage homes.

For those who love the outdoors, including sandy beaches and urban green spaces.

West End is the area for you. Residents can enjoy different retail, dining, and nightlife corridors.

From the high-end shopping of Robson Street to the local restaurants along Denman Street, you can have access to all of that.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent in the West End area

2. Yaletown

Yaletown is situated in the South-East Downtown area.

It used to be a rail yard in the 19th century.

The railway loading docks have been converted into restaurants and Patios, and the warehouses have been converted into Lofts. 

Yaletown is one of Downtown’s safest neighborhoods.

So if you’re someone who gets scared of walking alone at night, then you should be good here.

It’s not too crowded, but it’s also not deserted. There is always something going on in this area. 

Its fancy restaurants, boutiques, nightclubs, and a visit to the False Creek Marina make this place suitable for the elite. 

It’s expensive to rent in Yaletown. You might not get the best value for money; it’s like you are just paying to be a part of one of the fanciest neighborhoods in Vancouver. 

Here’s how much you can expect to pay for rent in the Yaletown area

3. Gastown

Located on the opposite side of Yaletown, yet still a part of the Downtown core.

Gastown is in the East Downtown area; it was established in 1867, surprisingly, the same year when  Canada became a nation.

Known for its famous Steam Clock, built in 1977 to harness steam, a variety of souvenir shops, art galleries, and Victorian Buildings that line Water Street.

Some yearly events in Gastown include the Vancouver International Jazz Festival and the Global Relay Gastown Grand Pix, a bicycle race that brings in competitors from around the world.

During the day, you’ll find a lot of tourists in this area because of its historic charm.

But that’s not it; Gastown has some of the best restaurants, bars, and shopping spots.

The area has slightly more reasonably priced apartments than Yaletown.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay in the Gastown area

4. Coal Harbour

Well-connected to other regions of Vancouver by all modes of public transportation.

Coal Harbour’s waterfront area in the heart of downtown makes this the most desirable neighborhood in Vancouver.

With its beautiful waterside restaurants, cafes, and high-end hotels featuring breathtaking scenic views, it has become one of the most popular areas for tourists who want to experience living near the waterfront.

It’s home to some of the city’s most luxurious condos.

The area consists of high-rise condo units close to the sea wall and marina to the north.

If you’re someone who likes to sip your coffee while staring at the planes taking off from the harbor, then this is your place to be. 

Here’s how much you can expect to pay in the Coal Harbour area

5. Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is a bustling residential neighborhood with plenty of outdoor activities.

As the name suggests, the area is perfect for first-time home buyers, including professionals and families. 

Mount Pleasant has a variety of eateries and cute cafes, so whether you want to stroll the streets or browse unique boutiques, there is always something to discover.

Public transportation makes it easy to commute to nearby places. 

If you’re visiting Mount Pleasant for the first time, be sure to visit the numerous art ventures that are scattered throughout the industrial zone.

The local attractions and vibrant communities create a welcoming environment, so if you’re looking for a neighborhood that provides a sense of belonging, then you’ll definitely feel at home here. 

Here’s how much you can expect to pay in the Mount Pleasant area

Commercial Drive

If you want to get a clear picture of Vancouver’s cultural diversity, head to Commercial Drive.

Known as “The Drive” by locals, it has over 300 quirky cafes, antique furniture shops, and eclectic restaurants. 

Little Italy covers eight blocks of the drive, and its special bakeries, delis, and pizzeria pay homage to a large Italian population that Commercial Drive their home post Second World War. 

Here, you’ll find a lot of artists, musicians, and old Italian men watching soccer on TV and enjoying the wine.

So whether you’re looking for a deliciously crunchy pizza or a mouthwatering penne arrabbiata, then a visit to experience the culinary treasures of Little Italy is a must.

With the commercial Broadway SkyTrain station and several bus routes, it has a good public transit system. 

If you want to move into a large home with a backyard, this is the ideal neighborhood for you to be in, but make sure you hire a good moving company in Vancouver.

But if you’re moving to a rental home, then be prepared, as the house will be split into several bedrooms, and you most likely have to share it. 

Here’s how much you can expect to pay in the Commercial Drive area

Kitsilano

Some neighborhoods might not be for everyone, but the Kits Beach (or the Kitsilano area, if we want to go by the official name) is that rare exception.

No matter what vibe you prefer, this area offers something for everyone.

Kits, on the west side of the city, is home to many students and families.

It can be a popular area amongst those searching for where to live in Vancouver.

It is lined with Vancouver’s two of the most important beaches, Kits Beach and Jericho Beach.

It also provides great views of the Downtown and North Shore mountains.

Kitsilano can be a hub of summer activities.

It has various yoga studios, beautiful cafes, museums, and organic markets. Rent is usually expensive around the Kits Beach area, but as you go toward the west, like UBC (University of British Columbia) or south below West Broadway Street, the prices decrease gradually. Kitsilano is usually a 20- —to 30-minute bus ride to UBC. 

Here’s how much you can expect to pay in the Kitsilano area

Granville Island

Granville Island, also known as Vancouver’s artisan capital, brings together fresh, local, award-winning culinary items with famous and well-curated galleries, theaters, and shops.

It combines industrial heritage with modern-day architecture to create a warm and welcoming community. 

If you have a sweet tooth, head to Lee’s Donuts, a donut shop that attracts people for its tasty donuts. 

It will be a good area for families to live in, as it offers several live entertainment shows, art galleries, fairs, and festivals, including Vancouver’s International Children’s Festival.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay in the Granville Island area

Kerrisdale

Kerrisdale is located south of Kitsilano. Vancouver’s affluent elderly usually retire in this area, and the area’s shops are primarily old-fashioned and target older adults.

This area also offers affordable apartments for rent in Vancouver.

If you are an upcoming UBC (University of British Columbia Student), this is one of the best areas for you to live as it’s a quick bus ride to the university.

The transit is also very convenient; you can get downtown in 25-30 minutes via public transportation.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay in the Kerrisdale area

Burnaby

Burnaby borders Vancouver to the east. Just like Greater Vancouver, Burnaby has large immigrant communities.

Traveling to downtown Vancouver is very accessible via transit, and the best part here is the affordable rent, which makes it easier for people to search for the best areas to live in Vancouver.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay in the Burnaby area

Are You Planning To Move To Vancouver?

If you’ve made up your mind to move to Vancouver, then get ready for a surprise, as this city will be offering you breathtaking views, thrilling adventure activities, and a bustling downtown. 

But after you have weighed the pros and cons of moving to Vancouver and have finished your search for the best neighborhoods in Vancouver, you need to ensure your move goes smoothly. 

Pass that stress on to the professional movers in Vancouver; they are well-trained and efficient enough to handle all your belongings carefully.

They will make sure your relocation goes smoothly. 

You can simply rest and handle all the other essential tasks of moving as the local movers handle the difficult part of packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking your stuff.

They know how to pack your valuables safely with all the necessary packing and moving supplies. 

Moreover, hiring professional movers is a safer option because it reduces your chances of getting hurt and saves you time when relocating on your own. 

If you feel you don’t have enough space to store your belongings, then the professional moving company might have the option to temporarily store your belongings in climate-controlled storage units. 

Conclusion

Vancouver is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in British Columbia, and there is always something to do here.

However, moving to any new place comes with its own set of challenges, and it might not be the best decision for everyone. 

Before searching for where to live in Vancouver, write down a few questions, like why you want to change places.

What is the moving cost in Vancouver? And what are the best Vancouver neighborhoods to move to? After listing the answers, decide what’s best for you and your family.

However, the investment would be worth it for those willing to take the leap. 

If you are a student planning to move to Vancouver for higher studies, work, or to settle.

In that case, several good educational and work opportunities are lined up for you.

Not only that but there are also the best places for young adults to live in Vancouver.

 So, if you’re planning to move to any Vancouver district, don’t forget to get some assistance from Let’s Get Moving North Vancouver Movers, who will make the moving process seamless for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are some of the richest neighborhoods in Vancouver?

Some of Vancouver’s richest neighborhoods are Kerrisdale, West Vancouver, Shaughnessy City, Shaughnessy Centre, Kitsilano, and Point Grey. 

2. What city in British Columbia has the lowest crime rate?

Saanich is the safest city in British Columbia, with a crime rate below the national average.

The city’s popular retirement community and elderly population contribute to its low crime rate.

Located close to Victoria, Saanich offers the best of suburban living with easy access to amenities. 

3. What is the nicest place to live in Canada?

Downtown Vancouver, Kitsilano, Yaletown, Gastown, and West Point Grey are the best areas.

They are also popular because they are close to universities and offer a mixture of urban and country living.

4. Is it cheaper to live in Toronto or Vancouver?

When deciding between living in Toronto vs Vancouver, both cities in Canada are really expensive, but Vancouver generally ranks higher in living costs, especially due to its steep housing prices.

In Vancouver, the average rent of a one-bedroom apartment is around $2500, while in Toronto, it’s approximately $2300.